Back pain is often considered normal. But in fact, it can be severe to the point of paralysis and death.
especially If back pain is accompanied by fever, back stiffness or may be swollen, hot, sore, inflamed around the spine because that is a sign of “Spinal Infection”
Which way can germs enter the body?
spinal infection It is a symptom of the spine being infected by bacteria. It enters the body in 3 ways:
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1.) The infection enters the spine directly, such as being stabbed.
2.) Spread from infection near the spine
3.) bacteria that come from the bloodstream Especially when people have weakened body immunity.
symptoms of infection
Spinal infections are divided into two groups:
1.) sudden
It is usually a bacterial infection. It causes severe inflammation, high fever, extreme pain, stiff back and pus. Some people are in so much pain that they are unable to move or stand up and walk. However, there may not be swelling and redness like other infections.
2.) mild infectious type
Mostly caused by tuberculosis The symptoms will be gradual. In the early stages, patients or doctors may not know that back pain is caused by an infection. I thought it was just normal back pain. Because some people have no fever at all and even if the fever is not high Some people may have a low fever.
It took several days for this type of infection to be noticed. Most often know when the disease has spread quite a lot. Some people even have pus burst from the spine onto the skin. or may find disabilities such as a bowed back
area of infection in the spine
Spine infection Excluding the direct infection of the spinal cord, it usually occurs in 3 locations.
1.) Cervical disc area
2.) The backbone
3.) Inside the bone cavity which is the address of the spinal cord and nerves
The bone marrow infection is the most severe. It can be so dangerous that it can lead to paralysis after 48-72 hours.
In addition, if treated slowly, it may not be completely cured, resulting in paralysis. or some may die And it takes a long time to heal and recover.
Diagnosis of Spinal Infection
A doctor will diagnose a patient’s condition by asking about their medical history and symptoms. And may examine the body to find the infected area in the following ways
1.) Blood test To help doctors determine the cause of infection by examining relevant factors such as complete blood count culture test detection of protein levels that indicate inflammation, etc.
2.) Radiography This will help the doctor determine the damage and injury to the bone. The doctor usually uses x-rays initially. And some people may use a CT scan or MRI scan. for details in that area
3.) Bone biopsy sent for examination It is considered the most standardized diagnosis. The doctor will inject a needle into the skin or bone. to take a biopsy sample for diagnosis It also helps the doctor to select the appropriate medication for the patient according to the type of infection.
4.) Other methods besides blood tests For example, using a swab to swab fluid in the throat for a culture test. urine culture test stool examination, etc.
How to treat spinal infection
Treatment Guidelines for Spinal Infection It depends on the symptoms, the severity of the disease and the type of pathogen. But will have to use antibiotics. Always be the main character in the treatment. because a scalpel cannot kill germs
For surgery, it depends on the patient individually. It is not always necessary to perform surgery on every patient. The principle of surgery is
1.) I want to know the pathogen and the sensitivity test results against appropriate antibiotics.
2.) Solve neurological symptoms
3.) Correct disabilities and connect the destroyed bones to complete strength.
Prevention of spinal infection
to prevent infection in the spine Notice yourself that If you have frequent back pain And having a fever that comes and goes, you should see a doctor immediately. Because if the infection is not severe especially tuberculosis which are still commonly found in our homes then realize late It can be severe to the point of paralysis or death.
Thank you information from: Samitivej Hospital and POBPAD
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